Day of International Criminal Justice

This day commemorates the adoption of the Rome Statute, which established the International Criminal Court. The aims of the day is to recognize the importance of international criminal justice and to advocate for the rights of victims of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide . The celebration of the International Criminal Justice Day is an opportunity to  educate the public about the importance of international criminal justice and the role of the ICC . Organizations and individuals use the day to  call on states and international actors to strengthen international justice mechanisms and support victims' rights .There are opportunities to learn about the international criminal justice system and advocate for victims. Follow the Social media campaigns with the hashtags #DayForInternationalCriminalJustice. EVENT : On July 17th will be observed the International Criminal Justice Day 2025. Participants will mark the 27th anniversary of the Rome Statute , the trea...

In the face of unprecedented threats over the past year , international justice mechanisms have demonstrated resilience and resolve. Nonetheless, we remain deeply concerned about the continued erosion of accountability that jeopardizes victims’ rights and weakens the international rule of law. In many contexts, transitional justice efforts are being undermined or co-opted, failing to confront the root causes of violence or deliver redress to those most affected. We have witnessed selective responses driven by political interests, interference and attacks that threaten the independence, impartiality and effectiveness of judicial bodies. The absence of concrete and coordinated action to preserve the international justice system—often in defiance of States’ obligations under international law—has allowed atrocities to persist and escalate, causing devastating suffering for civilians. In this difficult context, it is even more inspiring to see the unwavering commitment of human rights d...

  On the 27th anniversary of the Rome Statute, the Global Initiative Against Impunity calls on States and international actors to reaffirm their commitment to inclusive, survivor-centered justice. In the face of mounting political pressure, systemic inequality, and selective accountability, we stand with survivors and civil society actors who continue to lead the charge against impunity—often at great personal risk. This year’s statement underscores the urgent need for coordinated, principled action to uphold the international justice system and ensure that all survivors of atrocity crimes can access their right to truth, justice, and reparation. 📄 Read the full statement here .

  The Day of International Criminal Justice marks the anniversary of the entry in force of the Rome Statute by the Assembly of State Parties. The Rome Statute is transforming lives, and international law, by creating a path to justice where no other path exists. Join us in Building a more just world!

The International Criminal Court has jurisdiction over cases involving war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, and aggression. The ICC is separate from the United Nations, but the two organizations work closely together. Indeed, one way cases can end up before the ICC is when they are referred by the UN Security Council. Otherwise, cases must have taken place in the territory of a party state or committed by a national of a party state. Notably, except for the crime of aggression, the ICC can only prosecute individuals but not states or organizations. The Rome Statute also defines the procedures for investigations, prosecutions, and trials. However, the ICC only can hear cases if the crime was committed after July 1, 2002, when the Rome Statute came into effect. The Rome Statute also addresses issues such as admissibility and applicable law, trials, penalties, appeal and revision, international cooperation and judicial assistance, and enforcement. Regarding immunity, the ICC on...